A National Bootcamp for New Cardiology Trainees

Abstract

Major transition points in the careers of junior doctors can be accompanied by significant stress, burnout and mental health issues. Basic training may not adequately equip trainees with the specific knowledge and skills required to confidently adapt to the demands of their new roles. Annual staff changeovers may increase the risk of adverse patient outcomes as trainees adapt to their new roles and responsibilities.

In response to these concerns, ‘bootcamps’ have been developed to help trainees transition more effectively to their new roles. Such programmes have been widely adopted by surgical specialties but are less common among medical specialties. We sought to design a national bootcamp for new cardiology registrars working within the Irish health system. To our knowledge this is the first reported bootcamp for cardiology trainees at a national level worldwide.